NU Lady Bulldogs dedicate sixth straight title to Jack Animam

UAAP women's basketball mythical five member and National University player Jack Animam was absent during the best-of-three Finals against the University of Santo Tomas due to an eye injury.

However, the team made sure she was present for the celebrations as they made a life-size standee of her which they displayed after winning the Finals.

NU dedicates this title to Jack Animam, who is not present in this game due to eye injury. pic.twitter.com/1DNqt8I0bn

— JK Carandang (@jk_carandang) November 23, 2019

Coach Pat Aquino said he was overwhelmed with joy after winning their sixth straight title, but also sad that Animam was not here.

"It’s so sad without Jack. Sabi ko sa kanila, let’s give this to Jack," Aquino said during the post-game conference.

Despite her absence, Animam made sure she talked to her teammates prior to the game.

"She said 'You can do it without me.' It’s my first time to play the championship without Jack," senior Rhena Itesi said.

For Finals MVP Monique Del Carmen, Animam's absence was a chance for all of them to step up. "Sobrang laking bagay kasi 'yun nga, si Jack yung pinaka-vocal  sa'min. Nung nawala siya, lahat kami nag-step up," she added.

"Siya 'yung naging motivation namin na 'yun nga wala siya, so nag-step up kaming lahat," echoed Kaye Pingol.

Jack Animam at the end of the elimination round averaged 15 points and 12.43 rebounds per game.

Her eyes were injured while playing the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament against South Korea. — DVM, GMA News